Gaileen Sutton

The beauty of these windows that have graced homes and buildings for centuries cannot be denied. They have a timeless quality and seem to complement architecture of all styles and designs. Modern to old world charming styles are all improved by this style of windows. Too many areas are losing their historical heritage when replacement is done instead of sash window refurbishment.

Dating back centuries ago these windows were immortalized in a Vermeer painting called The Milkmaid. The concept of sashes was uniquely clever in that it allowed for air to circulate through a room and cool it long before electricity and air conditioners. Fine examples of these six over six panel sashes are still to be seen in gracious homes from the Georgian and Victorian eras.

The invention was developed at a time when pane glass was thick and heavy and windows were opened with difficulty. Its system of pulleys and counterweights with the help of cords allowed people to open heavy sashes with ease. They were easy to clean as well even on the upper floors.

Little has changed and the carpenters from those days would never have thought that their handwork would survive centuries of operation. It is just this wear and tear of wooden sash and runners that are now leading to problems. Wood is very susceptible to weather changes and shrinks and swells continuously. When wood is rubbed together it also wears away.

Windows start to rattle in their frames and gaps left by the wearing away allow draughts to enter rooms. These draughts are inclined to cool down a room and lead to extra heating having to done resulting in extra costs when the weather turns cold. At the time of refurbishment latches to secure these windows can be installed that are easily removed from the inside in emergencies. Double glazed panes and draught proofing is also advised to insulate windows.

All refurbishing is normally carried out on site and even broken and chipped frames can be repaired without removing the frame from the wall. Companies seldom remove entire frames for repair in their workshops and only do so when it is badly damaged. Counterweights, cords and pulleys are either restored or replaced with new materials.

The National Heritage Council that governs historical homes and buildings has recently approved replicated frames that look like the old styled ones to use when replacing windows that are beyond repair.

In the United States these windows are known as hung sashes and are to be found in single and double sashes. In the case of the single type only one section opens whereas the double operates as a normal sash window with both windows being able to open.

The design and concept of sashes are unique, elegant and bring a sense of stylishness to the frontage of any style of building. They add a charm which if removed would be lost forever. It is therefore vital that a person seriously consider a sash window refurbishment before removing any windows in need of repair.

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This type of window has one or more panels (sashes) that hold panes of glass. The sashes slide either vertically or horizontally. They operate by counterbalancing the weight of the panel against iron or lead weights that are attached to a cord and passed over a pulley. Some older examples have a very complicated counterweight system. Frequently encountered problems with sash windows include swelling or distortion of woodwork, wood rot, rattling resulting from shrinkage and sticking as a result of sloppy application of paint. Sometimes sash window refurbishment is required.

These windows may be reconditioned by a specialist contractor. Alternatively, the work may be carried out by a suitably skilled homeowner. Some of the repairs that may be required are lubrication of the pulleys or replacing the cords. Brush pile draft proofing may be fitted and parting beads, brush pile and staff beads replaced. Counterbalancing may be adjusted by removing or adding extra weight. Sash lifts and Brighton fasteners in chrome or brass may be fitted.

Robert Hooke (1635-1703), British inventor and scientist, has been credited with their invention. Hooke invented the a type of microscope and introduced the biological term, ‘cell’ into the English language to indicate an anatomical unit of structure. He also served the Royal Society as Curator of Experiments for thirty years.

Hooke is also reputed to have invented the anemometer, wheel barometer and hydrometer. He served with Christopher Wren as architect and surveyor in 1666 after the Fire of London and assisted Robert Boyle by building an air pump.

Examples of some of the first sash windows may be seen near Richmond, London, near the Thames, in Ham House, which was built for Sir Thomas Vavasour in 1610. Declared by the National Trust to be ‘unique in Europe’, the house is reportedly haunted by the ghosts of the Duchess of Lauderdale and her dog, whose growl inspired a young couple to take a photograph that allegedly captured the two apparitions. The house is largely the work of Lady Elizabeth Murray, who was the Countess of Dysart.

Windows of this design often appear in Georgian and Victorian homes. The ‘classic’ arrangement is two rows of three panes of glass, but this is not compulsory, as shown in the Vermeer painting, ‘The Milkmaid’. Here, the artist depicts a robust young woman standing in a kitchen, with the light from the window illuminating crusty loaves of bread as she carefully pours some milk into what looks like a bread pudding.

Refurbishing your windows can greatly expand their lifespan and maintain the building’s historical integrity, often a statutory requirement. Rattles and drafts are eliminated and noise from outside is reduced. Repairing, rather than replacing, your windows certainly has economic advantages.

Other benefits of repair include better insulation, meaning lower heating bills. It is also kinder to the environment than chucking them onto the scrap heap. Double or triple glazing may be added to further improve insulation and reduce external noise.

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Professional or DIY sash window refurbishment is a choice which should be made depending on the work involved, and the abilities of the DIY-er. A person with DIY experience and the right information can replace the working parts such as cords, weights or spiral pulleys. For frames and window casements to be replaced may be a whole different ballgame best left to the professionals

The simpler jobs of replacement are well documented and can be found both through the internet and in books. Although regional variations to design and later windows being fitted with plastic spiral systems rather than the counterbalancing weights cause different fittings to be required the access to spare parts seems good. This does mean however that it is necessary to check what is required before ordering spare parts.

Because these windows are solid and quite often large their weight has to be considered as they will need to be removed. All DIY work causes its own problems with difficult access to the job making a simple task very complicated. An example is that windows can be very high causing the need to work up a ladder.

This means that anyone considering taking on this particular refurbishment themselves needs to be quite fit and flexible. There are many people out there with the attributes, information and tools who would make a good job of a basic refurbishment, possibly even a more complicated job. If someone considering this is used to manual work involving a little thought with a successful DIY background may find it easy.

Should the home owner decide to leave this work to the professionals then they will employing people who do this work frequently and so make it seem straight forward. This is a wise decision if the person is not as fit, young, or agile as is required. The final consideration of employing professionals is down to the cost.

Time estimates seem good, with bottom cords taking around one to one and a half hours to fit, top cords around two hours and the spiral weights up to an hour. This means you have a rough idea of your labour costs. However always be prepared that your window is not a standard one, and may involve extra charges.

As all sash window designs may vary by region and the older balance weights are sometimes replaced by newer spiral balances it would be sensible to get the fitters to give a quote on site. Also checking out a company for past jobs and work ethic is always a good policy. This information can often be found on the internet and can be checked before agreeing to any work being done.

Whether a house holder chooses their Sash window refurbishment left to the professionals, or decides to do it themselves is a choice only they can make. Based on their personal circumstances they should now have enough information to help them make that decision. Either choice should result in windows that will continue to work well for many years to come.

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Older homes have a particular charm that is all their own. Keep them looking beautiful by choosing sash window refurbishment over replacement. Unless your windows are beyond repair, keeping the original beauty of your home intact will give you a sense of pride in your house. Original architecture is a key selling point for higher end homes and you will increase the value of the building by repairing rather than replacing.

Windowpanes that were made when your home was new may show the imperfections that come with handmade items. The pride that comes with looking through a piece of history cannot be matched. The cost and rarity of original panes may be prohibitive, but by refurbishing the original windows, you can get a similar effect.

The window sash is a grid comprised of thin strips, or muntins, made of wood or metal. The muntins have a fillet or lip, that holds one side of the glass in place. The internal edges of the panes are held in place by more strips and can be glazed to keep out wind. The glazing also helps to keep the panes more secure when harsh winds blow.

When a prefabricated grill is added to a larger window to look like muntins, it is called a grille. It breaks up the harshness of a plate of glass, and is an alternative for people who want to make their windows look more historically correct. Purists opt for the traditional windows, with the goal of retaining historical accuracy.

Slim muntins were used in Greek revival buildings. Georgian and Victorian homes saw the most prevalent use of these windows, however. They had a classic shape, called Six Over Six windows. Each sash had two rows of three panes of glass and two sashes were used for each window. They were usually placed one above the other, rather than side-by-side.

One of the unique attributes of this type of window was the hidden cast iron weights on either side. The weights were hidden in the casement and helped moved the sashes and could be adjusted to have both a top and bottom opening. This simple method of managing air flow allowed the warmer air to flow out while cooler air flowed in. They were a very effective way to cool homes.

The person who actually makes or repairs the unit is called a joiner, because they join pieces of glass to form a window. The small panes of glass were used primarily because it was too expensive to make large panes before the glass industry matured. Currently, when architects compare impersonal plate glass windows to elegant sash windows, the sashes win because of their attractiveness.

Older homes face a number of natural aging problems, like wood rot, swelling from moisture or a broken cord. You may consider repairing the windows yourself, but the job can be challenging. Most people opt for professional help and choose sash window refurbishment. The investment can be well worth it because the value of your home will increase, and you will once again see the original beauty of your home.

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Many years ago all houses used windows held in wooden frames called a sash. Most are double frame to allow one frame to move up and down. Many decades ago aluminium frames began to be use in home construction. Over time with new and improved technologies vinyl windows began to replace aluminium. These new windows are very popular but when installed in a classic home can give an odd impression and look. Sash window refurbishment can be done to restore these houses to their regular condition, and with proper installation and storm windows can provide similar performance.

Inside the casing of these wooden framed glass panes contains the most frequently broken part of the system, the counter balance weight. This weight helps lighten the frame and make the assembly easier to open. Also, once open it will stay open because of force through the ropes connecting the framework to the weights. They are attached with ropes up through pulleys and down to the movable wooden frame.

When the rope wears through the weight will drop down inside the casing. This renders the whole thing unmovable. The remaining weight only serves to jam the framework more freezing the whole system. When this happens sometimes the other cord is cut deliberately so the unit can be opened. Of course now the frame needs to be propped open to prevent it from crashing down now relieved of the counter balance.

In this state the whole assembly will frequently be painted over and as time passes tightly sealed in the process. The whole thing is now impossible to open.

Fixing a sash can be easy provided it has not been painted shut. These type of glass frames are enclosed in a outer frame or casing. On either side is a access port of sorts that can be opened to allow you to find the old weight and hopefully reattach the rope to the weight. If you look closely on either side you should be able to see the place where this access panel meets the casing. This can only be done with an open window.

If the rope needs replacing, any suitable rope or cord that can freely pass through the pulley will do. Most people want to use a nylon rope that will not wear out as fast. The length of the rope is very important. The weight should not hit the bottom window framing but be allowed to swing freely when the glass frame is all the way up.

Attaching the rope to the framework will need to be done with the framework entirely free from the casing. This is the only way to get at the correct spot to allow this to happen. There are metal fittings on the side of the frame for attaching the cord. The old cord is likely to be there and you can tell what kind of knot was used.

Sash window refurbishment takes time and effort but the results will be an authentic look to vintage homes. If installed properly with the correct materials these types of wood frame panes will perform as well as the modern vinyl ones. It can be a difficult job to do right. Consulting with a trusted professional in the business will save your time and money.

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Shopping for windows for your older home can be frustrating. New window treatment are primarily made of vinyl. This will certainly effect the look and authenticity of your classic home. These houses can have wooden frame glass that use ropes, pulley and sash weights for lifting the heavy framing. Fortunately, sash window refurbishment is possible with patience and some effort.

One of the problems with restoring these windows is their age. Over time the house may be painted, many times. If care isn’t taken the windows may have been painted shut. It is up to the restorer to carefully remove the paint to free the framing and if necessary carry on any needed repairs.

Removing the top layers first allows you to see where the frame has been cemented to the casing and other windows with paint. Sanding with a rotary sander and using paint remover are tools of the trade for this sometimes difficult job. When using a sander be aware that older paint contains lead. Use a good respirator to filter out the lead. The disposable paper ones will not protect you well.

Once most or all the seams are fully exposed you can work the seams with a utility knife or other narrow metal tool to penetrate the remaining paint. Patience is key here. If you rush the job or get frustrated you can crack the glass or even break the wooden framing. Though you can get this frame replaced it can be time consuming.

The frames move in wooden courses created with strips of wood on both sides of the frame. These will likely need to be removed and doing so will make taking out the frame much easier. Also, if the channel has been painted, you will need to take the guide off to clean the channel regardless.

Guides can be easily replace by similar lumber from the local home improvement centre. Breaking one or both of the guides should not be a concern. Cutting through the old paint where the guide meets the casing with a utility knife is the first step. Then loosen the guide with a flat pry bar. The now open groove should have any surplus paint removed and the bare wood treated with a preservative. Repainting the groove is not recommended. The restored window, as it is opened and closed will wear the paint off. Coating the guide with paraffin or wax to assure smooth operation is recommended.

Once you have removed the guide you will have better access to the wood frame beneath. Check for any sign of weather damage. If moisture has been allowed in then you may see some mold or mildew. This usually presents as a black stain on the wood. More sealing will need to done on the exterior to prevent further damage.

Sash window refurbishment will restore your classic home to its original design, look and feel. On vintage homes this can add not only owner satisfaction but true value to the property. Restoration vary in effort and score an can require care. Find a contractor who does restorations like this for advice and guidance.

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One of the most important components in many houses is the wood. However, it must be well maintained so that it cannot loose its quality. The material can rot and decay quickly if exposed to a damp place. This makes it very expensive to repair structures like wooden windows. If the damage is not severe, the best approach is to repair them. It is therefore necessary to find out how to repair rot and decay on wooden windows.

It is good to have some idea about the problem before proceeding with anything. This condition is caused when saprophytic fungus starts to grow on the wood. This moisture creates conducive environment for the fungus to grow. As it grows, it damages the timber by consuming it.

Before getting to the actual repair, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect the damaged structure in order to identity all areas that were affected. Joints, lower rails, and upright pieces especially require attention. Also pay special care to areas which are in close to damp walls. Glazing beads tend to also be affected, especially if the external putty failed, or if the beads are fixed without it in the first place.

You should also know how to confirm a particular area is affected. The affected timber becomes extremely soft. Most signs become visible after the dampness is gone and the surface starts to collapse and shrink. To confirm, you can simply prod the area with a screwdriver. It will slip in easily if the timber is affected. If the damage is not severe, there will be no need to panic since the problem can be treated.

Start by treating the area with liquid wood hardener as well as good quality putty. The first step is to drill holes in the damaged area, using a honeycomb pattern, and filling them with hardener. Doing so ensures that the liquid can reach the entire affected area. After filling the holes, give the liquid time to harden.

After the hardener is dry, you can use your high quality putty to cover the holes. You must sand the putty down in order for the structure to be smooth again. This will ensure that the surface is uniform.

Now that you know how to repair rot and decay on wooden windows, you can fix any minor problem. Do make sure that you properly maintain the timber next time. Dampness, especially after showers of rain, needs quick removal. This will help avoid costly replacements in the future.

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With the high cost of energy being what it is today, it is no wonder why so many people are wondering how can double glazed windows reduce your energy consumption. Taking a look at you last energy bill will many times make a person want to do a double take and wonder how to get the cost down. These types of items make for the best replacement of a window.

It is by far been proven that the use of many of these items has been proven to take an energy bill and reduce it to mere dollars. This is due to the fact that the home is designed to keep the cold and in and the hot air in during the winter. This in turn results in there being a lot less power needed to keep the home at a comfortable level.

Most people are not aware of how much Energy that their windows are able to save if they are functioning properly. Many of these people look at the door as being the big savior for their energy cost. They never give their windows the credit that they deserve in the energy fight.

Replacing their windows with double glazed glass, will be a huge step in the right direction in getting a handle on their power bills. Imagine the savings that you would have in the span of a year when installing these windows. Many people take these savings and use them for something like a vacation or even as part of their Christmas money.

If you feel like you are up to it, you are able to take on the project yourself. This as a result will allow you the chance to have a hand in the reduction of your energy cost. If on the other hand you would prefer a more professional touch, then allow a trained installer do the work for you.

The life expectancy of these is around a couple of decades with proper care and use. This means that you can save a large amount over the life of the home.

Over the course of a homes life you can expect to replace the item around a couple of times. It makes good sense to install double glazed windows and see first hand how can double glazed windows reduce your power consumption. You will be amazed at the difference that this makes in the power cost of a persons home. This is just one more way that you can take action in an effort to save a little money during these high power cost times.

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There are many resources to find out how to repair rot and decay on wooden windows. Home owners must identify the type of window on the home. Different styles include double-hung, single-hung, and casement. So start by knowing the type of window that is deteriorating.

If only the window sill is decaying, then it could be a simple fix. Consult a professional carpenter to determine if the rest of the window is sound. Another simple fix would be loose putting around the sash. Loose putty allows dampness to get between the glass and wood. This moisture speeds up the rotting process of the wood. Simply remove the loose putty and replace it with new putty. Most hardware stores carry putty to perform this repair.

A casement window is hinged and opens much like a door. Cranks, levers, and handles can all be used to open and close this type of window. It’s generally paired with functional, outdoor shutters.

A casement window may only need simple fixes like tightening the hinge screws, or adjusting the striker plate for a tighter seal. Home owners simply need to keep the window tracks swept out for ease of operation. Oiling the tracks annually can also extend the life of the window and keep it functioning without rust for years.

Any window that can be opened from the top and the bottom are referred to as a double-hung window. It is one of the most reliable and weather resistant types of window. They can operate using either weights and pulleys, or through the use of springs. Unfortunately, the most common problem with this type of window is when the home owner paints the sash closed. The other common issue is the fraying and breaking of the sash cords.

The double-hung window is excellent for natural cooling in summer months. By raising the lower sash, and lowering the upper sash creates a natural air flow. A cheaper version of this style is the single-hung window, where only the bottom sash raises and the upper sash is fixed in place.

While there are ways to find out how to repair rot and decay on wooden windows, it’s always best to consult a licensed carpenter. Professionals can help determine if minor repairs will do the job, or if a major overhaul of the window is needed. Identify the type of window, find a carpenter who is familiar with that type of window, and request a consult on having them repaired to help maximize the energy efficiency of the house.

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